James ,
Agree totally with the idea of a nostalgia class based around the times mentioned and the need for the need for the cars to meet current chassis specs , the three lifestyle meetings you list are all geared towards the nostalgia scene and work well for the audience and those that enter them Dragstalgia already having a slingshot showdown that is gaining popularity
As for the so called big shows are sanctioned and run under MSA rules and guidelines one would imagine that any new class would need to be ratified by the MSA first , or as an exibition class but as with any commercial venture a return on investment will undoubtably be required ie it needs to be a class or show the paying spectator wants , if this does not transpire then the class gets sidelined or merged just look at the situation with TAFC.
So the need is to produce a polished product prior to application
Just my 2 cents worth
Regards
Richard Moor